Cobb & Company: Leadership & Mentorship in Addressing Health Disparities

14. The Satcher Health Leadership Institute Mission, & Breaking Barriers in HIV Care in Southern Black Communities. With Dr. Maisha Standifer, Part 2

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Cobb and Company, the podcast of the W. Montague Cobb Institute. Hosted by Cobb Institute President & CEO Dr. Randall Morgan, this episode features a captivating discussion with Dr. Maisha Standifer from the Satcher Health Leadership Institute at Morehouse School of Medicine.
Dive deep into the challenges and triumphs of the Satcher Health Leadership Institute's overall mission, and the groundbreaking program focused on dismantling structural barriers in HIV care within Southern Black communities. Dr. Standifer shares her insights into how the program is impacting cities like Atlanta, New Orleans, and Baton Rouge, targeting people living with HIV and advocating for health equity.
Explore how the program is addressing stigma, promoting sexual health education, and creating alliances with other historically Black institutions. With a clear commitment to advancing health policies and creating data-driven strategies, Dr. Standifer discusses aligning efforts with initiatives like Georgia Thrives and engaging with governmental and non-governmental organizations.
Gain a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of HIV care and the critical importance of training the next generation of healthcare leaders to be culturally competent and responsive to the needs of marginalized communities across the Southern United States.

13. A Cobb Scholar Returns: Dr. Maisha Standifer discusses how medical anthropology helps us understand structural barriers to health

In this enlightening episode of Cobb and Company, hosts Rolf Taylor and Jasmyne Lott are joined by Dr. Maisha Standifer, Director of Population Health at the Satcher Health Leadership Institute. With over 15 years of expertise, Dr. Standifer discusses her journey as a medical anthropologist and her transformative work addressing structural barriers in HIV care within Southern Black communities.
Dr. Standifer shares insights into her career path and the influence of Dr. W. Montague Cobb and the Cobb Scholars program on her professional choices and advocacy. She elaborates on the value of community-based participatory research and the essential role of mentorship in shaping future change-makers in the healthcare domain.
The episode also delves into the dynamic Georgia Thrives initiative, targeting HIV disparities in Atlanta, and explores similar initiatives in New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
Dr. Standifer talks about the challenges of stigma, the importance of culturally competent care, and the critical need to understand the socio-political determinants of health. This is a comprehensive discussion aimed at empowering Black communities and enhancing healthcare equity.
Satcher Health Leadership Institute: 
https://satcherinstitute.org/ 
Addressing structural barriers in HIV care impacting Black communities in the Southern United States: 
https://satcherinstitute.org/research/end-the-epidemic-hiv-equity/ 
Maisha Standifer, PhD, MPH, Director, Health Policy
https://satcherinstitute.org/maisha-standifer/ 
 
 

12. The Power of Mentorship: Building Success and Diversity in Healthcare, with London Wheeler and Carrington Boyer

Welcome to this episode of Cobb and Company, the podcast of the W. Montague Cobb Health Institute, recorded live at the National Medical Association Annual Convention in New York. Join Dr. Christina E. Stevens, Director of Operations for the Cobb Institute, as she discusses the crucial role of mentorship in enhancing diversity and representation within the healthcare workforce.
In this fun and insightful episode, we hear from London Wheeler, a third-year student at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, and Carrington Boyer, a recent graduate from Howard University. Both guests share their personal journeys and the transformative impact mentors have had on their careers. From navigating medical school challenges to exploring the interdisciplinary field of bioethics, London and Carrington highlight the invaluable support and guidance received from their mentors.
Discover how mentorship has helped them connect with the Cobb Institute and understand the importance of diversity in clinical trials. Gain valuable insights into building meaningful mentor-mentee relationships and the qualities that make effective mentors. Whether you're an aspiring healthcare professional or a seasoned mentor, this episode offers inspiration and practical advice for fostering a more inclusive, resilient and diverse healthcare environment.
(c) W. Montague Cobb Institute, 2024
The Cobb Scholars https://www.thecobbinstitute.org/overview 

11. Understanding Disparities in Multiple Myeloma Care with Dr. Joseph Mikhael

In this episode of Cobb & Company, series producer Rolf Taylor speaks with Dr. Joseph Mikhael, the Chief Medical Officer of the International Myeloma Foundation, about the significant disparities in the diagnosis and treatment of multiple myeloma, especially within African-American communities. Recorded at the National Medical Association Annual Assembly, Dr. Mikhael shares insights into the genetic and socioeconomic factors contributing to these disparities and the importance of equitable healthcare access.
The discussion delves into the challenges for underserved communities receiving timely diagnosis and cancer treatment, the social determinants of health, and the unique challenges faced by minoritized communities in accessing advanced therapies like CAR T-cell therapy. Dr. Mikhael emphasizes the need for a holistic approach that addresses delayed diagnosis and barriers to care, while also highlighting the role of systemic racism and healthcare system stratification in perpetuating these disparities.
Listeners will learn about the International Myeloma Foundation's M-Power program, which aims to empower patients and communities to change the course of myeloma through engagement, education, and enhanced care. The episode also touches on the importance of mentoring the next generation of healthcare providers to ensure a diverse and equitable future in medical care.
(c) W. Montague Cobb Institute 2024 
International Myeloma Foundation https://www.myeloma.org/ 
 

10. A Life in Health Advocacy & Equity: Reverend Dr. Lucy Perez on Meeting Dr. Cobb, HIV Advocacy, and Combining Medical Research with Faith

In this inspiring episode of Cobb and Company, recorded live at the National Medical Association Annual Convention in New York, host Rolf Taylor sits down with the remarkable Reverend Dr. Lucy Perez. Dr. Perez, a former president of the National Medical Association and a former director of the NAACP, shares her journey from her early career in New York's public health sector advocating for communities impact by HIV, to her current work in addressing health disparities and promoting diversity in clinical trials through her church.
Dr. Perez reflects on her encounters with the legendary W. Montague Cobb and her advocacy for social activism within the medical field. She passionately discusses the systemic biases in healthcare and the importance of equitable treatment for people of color. The conversation also delves into the innovative ways her church, Kingdom Fellowship AME Church, led by Pastor Matthew L. Watley, is engaging its congregation in health research and clinical trials, framing scientific discovery as a divine opportunity.
Tune in to explore the intersection of faith, health, advocacy, and activism, and learn how communities can harness the power of knowledge and trust to drive positive change. This episode is a call to action for securing time to reflect, engage, and create a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system.
(c) W. Montague Cobb Institute 2024     https://www.thecobbinstitute.org/w-montague-cobb 
Kingdom Fellowship AME Church      https://kingdom.global/ 
 

9. The "Whole Person" Approach: Physiatrist Dr. Lisa Merritt on Mind, Body, Mentorship and Leadership

Join us in this in-depth episode as Rolf Taylor, producer of the podcast series, converses with Dr. Lisa Merritt at the National Medical Association Annual Assembly. Dr. Merritt, based in Sarasota, Florida, shares her journey as the first physiatrist on the podcast and delves into her impactful work as the Founder and Executive Director of the Multicultural Health Institute.
Dr. Merritt discusses her initiatives to address health inequities, the importance of community-based participatory research, and her passion for mentoring the next generation of medical professionals. With an herbalist uncle and a passion for combining traditional nutrition and modern medicine, Dr. Merritt discusses how the "whole person" approach benefits patients and communities. She also shares insights from her recent trip to Ghana, highlighting the importance of returning to one's roots to move forward again. 
Discover how Dr. Merritt's work in Sarasota, focusing on chronic diseases and environmental justice, is reshaping healthcare delivery and community health. Her inspiring story is a testament to the power of cultural competence and community engagement in fostering health equity.
(c) W. Montague Cobb Institute 2024
The Multicultural Health Institute:   https://www.the-mhi.org/news 
Bio: Dr. Lisa Merritt 
Dr. Lisa Merritt is a board-certified physiatrist, focusing on brain injury, pain management, including sports and work-related injuries in Sarasota, Florida. Over the past 25 years, she has been a passionate and unrelenting advocate for elimination of health disparities. In 1995, while managing her practice and serving as an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the University of California Davis, Dr. Merritt founded the Multicultural Health Institute (MHI) in Sacramento,California to focus attention on health disparities and the economic impact of prevention strategies. A former seven-year President of the Capitol Medical Society and Vice President of the Golden State Medical Society, Merritt was an original member of the California Office on Minority Health statewide multicultural health task force and originator of the initial policy on improving cultural and linguistics standards in health delivery in the State of California. Moving to Sarasota, Florida in 2004, Dr. Merritt in her practice and through the MHI, has had a singular impact on health disparities through two highly successful community initiatives; her Sarasota Community Health Guide and her creation of the Gatekeepers, lay health advisors and educators involved in neighborhood activities to reduce disparities in HIV/AIDS, diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease through preventive health measures that include providing information on health coverage, health awareness and health screenings.  
 
 

8. From Music to Medicine: A Journey of Mentorships, Collaborations and Perseverance with Dr. Alvin Crawford

In this foundational episode, Dr. Randall Morgan, an esteemed orthopedic surgeon and the President and CEO of the W. Montague Cobb Institute, engages in a captivating conversation with Dr. Alvin Crawford, the former Board Chair of the W. Montague Cobb NMA Health Institute. Recorded at the National Medical Association Annual Convention, the dialogue offers insights spanning eight decades of Dr. Crawford's extraordinary career and his transition from a music major to a pioneering figure in pediatric orthopedics.
Dr. Crawford shares the milestones of his journey, highlighting the influential role of mentors and the importance of perseverance. He reflects on the significance of the Cobb Institute's work in addressing health disparities and the impact of diverse multidisciplinary collaborations. The episode also explores the intriguing connection between music and medicine, as Dr. Crawford discusses his upcoming book, "The Bone Doctor's Concerto," which delves into the harmonious blend of his two passions.
Listeners will gain insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by African-American physicians, the vital role of mentorship, and the enduring legacy of trailblazers like Dr. Crawford and Dr. Morgan, both with "firsts" to their names. This episode is a testament to the power of resilience, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence in both music and medicine, and to the importance of the work of the W. Montague Cobb Institute. 
(c) W. Montague Cobb Institute 2024
The Bone Doctors Concerto   https://a.co/d/6wijZsp 
W. Montague Cobb Institute   https://www.thecobbinstitute.org/w-montague-cobb 

7. Empowering Future Physician-Scientists: An overview of the "Cobb Scholars" Program with Dr. Winston Price

In this enlightening episode of Cobb & Company, the podcast of the Montague Cobb Health Institute, hosted by Rolf Taylor, our guest is Dr. Winston Price, M.D., FAAP, Chief Information & Technology Officer, delves into the transformative impact of the Cobb Scholars Program. Designed to foster diversity in healthcare research, the program aims to empower young healthcare professionals by providing them with access to mentoring, resources, research project (R01) grants & funding, and networking opportunities.
Dr. Price, a board-certified pediatrician and past president of the National Medical Association, shares insights into the program's mission to address disparities in research funding and representation. He highlights the importance of connecting young scholars with seasoned mentors and prestigious platforms like the Association of Academic Minority Physicians to advance their careers.
Listeners will also gain a deeper understanding of the Cobb Institute's efforts to leverage data from the All of Us Research Program, housed at the Vanderbilt Data Warehouse, to enable groundbreaking research on health disparities. Dr. Price emphasizes the program’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of physician-scientists, advocating for bold and unapologetic efforts to improve healthcare for all.
Closing the discussion, Dr. Price reflects on the immense legacy and influence of Dr. Montague Cobb, a physician-scientist who was instrumental in establishing Medicare and Medicaid, for the benefit of all Americans. 
(c) W. Montague Cobb Institute 2024 

6. Trailblazing Paths: Dr. Richard Allen Williams on Legacy, Mentorship, and Diversity in Medicine

In this insightful episode of Cobb and Company, Dr. Randall Morgan, President and CEO of the W. Montague Cobb Health Institute, welcomes Dr. Richard Allen Williams, a pioneering figure in medicine and advocate for diversity and equity. The episode delves into the history and impact of influential mentors like Dr. W. Montague Cobb, and highlights the importance of preserving their legacy. Dr. Morgan and Dr. Williams remember Dr. Cobb's vital role as a physician and Howard University professor advising The White House during the early 60s, when civil rights and voting rights legislation were enacted, and Medicare and Medicaid were established. 
Dr. Williams reflects on the significance of his recent street naming honor in Wilmington, marking a full-circle moment in his illustrious career, and shares his journey from his early aspirations inspired by a kind pediatrician in Wilmington to becoming a renowned cardiologist and the founder of the Association of Black Cardiologists.
He discusses the challenges and triumphs of being one of only a handful of African Americans among thousands of white students attending Harvard University at the age of 16, sharing valuable insights and advice for aspiring medical professionals. He also emphasizes the crucial role of mentorship and sponsorship in advancing diversity in medicine today. 
Join podcast host and Cobb Institute CEO Dr. Randall Morgan in conversation with Dr. Williams as they explore the intersection of music and medicine, and discuss the ongoing efforts to ensure that the contributions of African American medical professionals are recognized and celebrated.
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In 1974, Richard Allen Williams, MD, FACC founded the Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC) with 17 other dedicated medical professionals. https://abcardio.org/ 
The W. Montague Cobb/National Medical Association (NMA) Health Institute (The Cobb Institute), a 501(c)(3) in Washington, DC, functions as a national consortium of scholars that engages in innovative research and knowledge dissemination for the reduction and elimination of racial and ethnic health disparities and racism in medicine. https://www.thecobbinstitute.org/about-us 
(c) W. Montague Cobb Institute 2024
 
 

5. AAMC & Collaborators Target Young Learners to Diversify the Healthcare Workforce. With Dr. Geoffrey Young.

In this episode of Cobb & Company, recorded live at the National Medical Association Annual Convention and Scientific Assembly in New York, Dr. Randall Morgan, President and CEO of the W. Montague Cobb Health Institute, sits down with Dr. Geoffrey Young from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). They discuss the AAMC's new strategic action plan aimed at diversifying the healthcare workforce.
Dr. Young, who leads the AAMC’s Transforming the Healthcare Workforce portfolio, shares insights into the organization's efforts to engage younger learners, particularly those from historically marginalized communities, in pursuing careers in healthcare. He highlights the importance of establishing pathway programs, developing educational resources, and fostering community partnerships to create a more inclusive healthcare workforce.
Additionally, Dr. Young and Dr. Morgan delve into the challenges and opportunities within K-12 education, the role of community colleges, and the critical need for academic health centers to engage with their local communities. They also discuss the impact of the recent Supreme Court decision on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in medical education.
Tune in to learn about innovative strategies, successful programs, and the ongoing efforts to ensure that the future healthcare workforce is diverse, well-prepared, and capable of meeting the needs of all communities.
Dr. Young leads the Transforming the Health Care Workforce portfolio, an extension of his responsibility leading the AAMC’s Strategic Action Plan 4, which seeks to diversify the health care workforce.
His portfolio’s work is focused on the education, professional development, and wellness of future health care workers and on creating viable pathways for historically marginalized  communities to enter the health care profession. 
Focus areas include disseminating research and data that provide insights on trends, structural inequities, and institutional culture that impact the diversity of the health care workforce and scanning the full medical education continuum to highlight promising practices, leverage points of intersection, and inform resource development that support innovations to UME and GME. 
His team is also recognized as a leader in holistic review in selection and pre-medical and applicant resources, providing inspiration, resources, data, and tools so that anyone can aspire to a career in medicine.
Before joining the AAMC in 2011, Geoffrey served in leadership positions in medical school admissions and student affairs at Rutgers University-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, and the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University.  Dr. Young earned his B.A. from Hampton University and his M.A. and Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the Ohio State University.
Randall C. Morgan, Jr., MD, MBA, is the President and CEO of the W. Montague Cobb/NMA Health Institute based in Washington, D.C. In that role he leads a staff of scholars and research specialists who focus upon the elimination of Health Disparities. He is also an active orthopedic surgeon who has practiced in Sarasota and Bradenton, Florida since 2005. He serves as founder and President of University Park Orthopedics in that community. He is also Clinical Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Florida State School of Medicine and is also a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Community Medicine at the University of Connecticut. He is a graduate of Grinnell College with a B.A. in Chemistry. He received the M.D. degree from Howard University. He served as a resident in Orthopedic Surgery at Northwestern University and served a Pediatric Orthopedic Fellowship at Children’s Hospital in Cincinnati. He later received an MBA degree from the University of South Florida.
Dr. Morgan served as the 95th President of the National Medical Association during the years 1996 and 1997. He was the first board-certified orthopedic surgeon to hold that position. Dr. Morgan is a true pioneer in his profession and was among the first surgeons to perform total joint replacement surgery at Northwestern University. Dr. Morgan has practiced General Orthopedic Surgery and Pediatric Orthopedics in Evanston, Illinois, and as well in his hometown of Gary, Indiana, for more than 30 years prior to his relocation to Sarasota. With the assistance of his father, Mr. Randall C. Morgan, Sr., he founded the Orthopedic Centers of Northwest Indiana and served as its president from 1975 to 1999. At one time, this was the largest minority-owned orthopedic practice in the United States. He has written and published extensively throughout his career on Orthopedics, Social Responsibility, Health Equity and the Education Pipeline for Underrepresented young scholars.  He is a Diplomat of the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery and the American Board of Managed Care Medicine. He is also a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and a member of Alpha Omega Alpha honorary medical society.
(c) W. Montague Cobb Institute https://www.thecobbinstitute.org/w-montague-cobb 
AAMC ACTION PLAN:     https://www.aamc.org/about-us/strategic-plan/action-plan-4-increase-diversity-medical-school-applicants-and-matriculants